Industries & Specializations

Discover what top industries have to offer

Accounting is one of the most versatile careers in business. CPAs are needed in every type of organization from multinational corporations to local nonprofits, and each sector offers unique opportunities to apply your skills, grow your expertise, and make an impact.

Public Accounting

Public accounting offers the widest range of opportunities in the profession, from auditing and tax to consulting and advisory services. Working with diverse clients across industries builds a strong foundation of skills, experience, and career connections that can open doors to any accounting pathway.

Corporate Accounting

Corporate CPAs work within a single organization to manage budgets, analyze financial data, and support strategic decision-making. It’s a great fit for those who enjoy being part of a business team and helping shape a company’s financial success from the inside..

Nonprofit

Nonprofit accounting combines financial expertise with purpose-driven work. CPAs in this sector ensure that funds are used effectively to advance an organization’s mission, making it a rewarding option for those who want to make a difference.

Education

CPAs in education share their expertise by teaching future accountants or managing finances in academic institutions. Whether as a professor, lecturer, or school finance leader, this path blends financial knowledge with mentorship and community impact.

Government

Government CPAs work at the local, state, or federal level to promote transparency, accountability, and responsible use of public funds. This field offers stable employment, meaningful public service, and the chance to influence how taxpayer money is managed.

Consulting

Consulting allows CPAs to apply their expertise to a wide variety of business challenges — from process improvement to risk management. It’s ideal for those who enjoy problem-solving, variety, and helping organizations operate more efficiently.

Self-Employed

Becoming a self-employed CPA offers flexibility, independence, and control over your client base. Whether you run your own practice or provide freelance services, it’s a path that rewards initiative and entrepreneurial spirit.

Audit

Auditors act as financial detectives, reviewing records to ensure accuracy and ethical business practices. This role builds analytical skills and provides exposure to a wide range of industries.

Financial Forensics

Forensic accountants investigate fraud, bankruptcy, and financial disputes – often serving as expert witnesses in court cases. It’s a field that blends accounting knowledge with investigative and legal insight.

Information Technology (IT)

CPAs in IT specialize in using technology to streamline operations, manage risk, and enhance data security. This growing field is ideal for those who enjoy combining finance with innovation and digital problem-solving.

Business Valuation

Business valuation specialists determine the worth of companies, often in preparation for mergers, acquisitions, or litigation. This role demands strong analytical skills and an understanding of market trends.

Personal Financial Planning

Personal financial planners help individuals manage wealth, investments, and future goals. It’s a relationship-focused path for CPAs who enjoy advising people directly and making a tangible difference in their financial well-being.

Tax

Tax specialists navigate complex and ever-changing tax laws to help individuals and organizations remain compliant and minimize liabilities. This specialization offers a clear career progression and consistent demand.

Managerial Accounting

Managerial accountants work within organizations to analyze performance, forecast budgets, and support strategic decisions. They play a key role in guiding business growth and improving efficiency.

ESG & Sustainability

This emerging field focuses on measuring and improving a company’s environmental, social, and governance performance. CPAs in ESG accounting help organizations report transparently and operate responsibly.

Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurial CPAs use their accounting knowledge to launch or advise new ventures. This specialization is ideal for those who want to combine business acumen with innovation and leadership.

Crypto Accounting

Crypto accountants manage and monitor digital assets like cryptocurrency and NFTs, helping organizations adapt to new financial technologies. It’s an evolving field that blends finance, regulation, and cutting-edge tech.

Curious where this journey leads next? Dive into The Path to Becoming a CPA and keep building your roadmap with confidence.